CORPUS CHRISTI – The Coastal Bend Coaches Association took time Saturday, Jan. 18, to honor a man that is an inspirational figure to many in Woodsboro.

Before a packed house at the Holiday Inn Corpus Christi, Aaron Houston, or “Coach Houston” as he is known, was inducted into the CBCA Hall of Honor.

Of the approximately 120 people in attendance, at least 75 or more specifically came to support the man that has touched their lives in one way or another.

Former students, parents of former students, colleagues, community friends, and of course his family all stood proudly and applauded as Woodsboro Athletic Director Wade Miller introduced Houston for his induction.

“I am such a blessed individual to have the outpouring of support that I received from my Woodsboro family today,” Houston said. “Today, I found out how much people really care. When you take time out of your day that is important. Today, my Woodsboro family took time to come and see Houston. I am truly humbled and their support really touched my heart.”

Houston’s career has taken him through stints at Mathis, Orange Grove, Aransas Pass and Woodsboro.

He has coached just about every sport there is. He has won numerous championships at different levels and he has been very successful helping kids in track.

He continues to help kids with the summer track program.

Houston is quick to tell anyone that watching his kids succeed in life after school and sports is his reward and his biggest accomplishment.

Since 1987, the CBCA has inducted 93 coaches into its Hall of Honor. Coach Houston and three of his colleagues brought that number to 97 this year. It can be a very difficult process for the CBCA committee to select coaches for induction. And it was very evident by Houston’s speech just how humbled he was to have been selected.

Houston delivered a very powerful message, saying “this is not about me or any other coach, this is about the kids we teach.”

Houston also stated that “this is the journey that God has brought me to; I am just doing His will.”

Houston also thanked his family who were all seated together at a table near the stage. He credited his mother Edna Mae Houston with instilling his values and a strong work ethic. He also said that “he was living proof that if you raise your kids, they will turn out just fine.”

The Woodsboro community in attendance had nothing but praise for a man they each consider a part of their family.

“Coach Houston means a lot to our community, and I am proud to work alongside him,” said Coach Keith Williams.

Doug Greene, a 1998 graduate of Woodsboro and now a San Antonio Police Department officer, drove in to support his former coach and mentor.

“He has been such a huge inspiration in my life, and I had to be here to let him know that,” Greene said.

“My step dad used to come pick me up after my sporting events while I was in school,” continued Houston. “He never once asked me how I did. He always asked how your team did. That is what’s important. We have to teach our kids that this is not a ‘me’ society. It is God first, then family, then school, then sports. It is very important that we as coaches and educators treat every kid equally regardless of their level of education and athletic talent. Our kids need to be taught that they will not be able to play sports forever. Their lives will eventually revolve around their families. So long as they realize their full potential, they will be just fine.”

At the end of Houston’s speech, it was obvious that he had gotten his message across. It was never about him. Even on a day when it was his turn to be honored and recognized, he acknowledged that he would not be here without his faith.

Houston said his greatest reward has been “those kids who were not always the best athletes or students, but because of hard work still went on to be successful.”

What’s next? Houston said, “We will continue to work hard. You get a pat on the back and then you just keep working. God is not finished with me yet. There are still a lot of other young and old people out there who need help. I have to get better so I can continue to help everyone that I possibly can. My recognition is over, and it’s time to get back to work.”